Man convicted of attempting to murder D-Day veteran

A 40-year-old man who attacked a Second World War veteran with a hammer while carrying out a burglary at his home has been convicted of attempted murder.

Following a trial at Taunton Crown Court, 40-year-old Joseph Isaacs, formerly from Exeter in Devon, was found guilty of attempting to murder 96-year-old Jim Booth at his home in Gipsy Lane on Wednesday 22nd November.

Avon & Somerset police were understandably pleased with the verdict in what they describe as an “emotiove case”.

It was an especially brutal attack on Mr Booth, 96, who was involved in covert operations during the D-Day landings in Normandy. He was left with life-threatening injuries to his head and body.

DCI James Riccio, who led the investigation, said: “Joseph Isaacs called at Jim Booth’s home posing as a workman. When Mr Booth declined the work being offered, Isaacs forced his way in, demanded money and subjected Mr Booth to a prolonged and barbaric ordeal. He used a claw hammer to strike Mr Booth repeatedly to the head and body – even hitting him multiple times while he lay on the floor. It was a cowardly act and it’s a miracle Mr Booth survived these horrific injuries.”